From Massage Magazine (Sep/Oct 05)
“Deep-tissue massage therapy has been ranked the most-effective means of addressing fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis by readers of Consumer Reports magazine. The poll’s topic was ‘Which alternative treatments work?’ Responses were based on personal experiences of healthcare treatments’ effectiveness. ...
“ ‘Back pain, neck pain, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis accounted for about one-fourth of the ailments that survey respondents told us about,’ the article stated. ‘For all four conditions readers told us that “body therapies”—massage, chiropractic, exercise and physical therapy—provided more relief than medications, either conventional or alternative.’ ...”
The article goes on to say that deep-tissue massage and chiropractic were the top choices for addressing back and neck pain— more evidence at how massage can help you lead a healthier, more pain-free life!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
How's the Head?
From annoying discomfort to debilitating pain, headaches can be thoroughly disruptive. Fortunately, massage can help bring relief to headache sufferers.
According to the National Headache Foundation, over 45 million Americans suffer from chronic, recurring headaches, costing industry an estimated 50 billion dollars per year due to absenteeism and medical expenses. Over 4 billion dollars is spent annually on over-the-counter remedies, many of which prove ineffective. At best, drugs mask the pain but do little to address the cause of the problem.
There are several types of headaches, including tension, sinus, migraine, and cluster, with tension headaches comprising about 90 percent of the total.
Tension headaches are caused by stress, anxiety, fatigue or anger and are felt in the head and neck region. Both migraine and cluster headaches are believed to be caused by chemical reactions in the brain. Migraines can be triggered by certain foods, hormonal changes, weather and stress. Sinus headaches are usually brought about by an allergic reaction or an infection.
Studies conducted by the Touch Research Institute have shown that both migraine and tension headaches respond well to massage. Benefits from the migraine study included more headache-free days, better sleep, less anxiety, and an increase in serotonin levels. With massage shown to get this kind of results, doesn’t it make sense that regular massage sessions could help to lessen the onset of headaches?
If you are bothered with headaches, please be sure to bring it up at your next session so we can see what can be done to get you some relief.
According to the National Headache Foundation, over 45 million Americans suffer from chronic, recurring headaches, costing industry an estimated 50 billion dollars per year due to absenteeism and medical expenses. Over 4 billion dollars is spent annually on over-the-counter remedies, many of which prove ineffective. At best, drugs mask the pain but do little to address the cause of the problem.
There are several types of headaches, including tension, sinus, migraine, and cluster, with tension headaches comprising about 90 percent of the total.
Tension headaches are caused by stress, anxiety, fatigue or anger and are felt in the head and neck region. Both migraine and cluster headaches are believed to be caused by chemical reactions in the brain. Migraines can be triggered by certain foods, hormonal changes, weather and stress. Sinus headaches are usually brought about by an allergic reaction or an infection.
Studies conducted by the Touch Research Institute have shown that both migraine and tension headaches respond well to massage. Benefits from the migraine study included more headache-free days, better sleep, less anxiety, and an increase in serotonin levels. With massage shown to get this kind of results, doesn’t it make sense that regular massage sessions could help to lessen the onset of headaches?
If you are bothered with headaches, please be sure to bring it up at your next session so we can see what can be done to get you some relief.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Sleep Makes You Smarter
“When you’re working on a knotty problem, it actually does help to sleep on it. A German study found that our brains continue to work on baffling problems while we sleep, allowing us to wake up with new insights. Researchers at the University of Luebeck gave subjects math problems that involved transforming a string of eight numbers into a new string, according to two mathematical rules. A third rule—a shortcut to solving the problem—was hidden in the puzzle. After working on the problem for a while, some subjects slept for eight hours before resuming their efforts, while others stayed awake all night. A third group tackled the problem in the morning and then returned to it after an eight-hour break. The sleepers were almost three times more likely to figure out the shortcut than either of the two groups that hadn’t slept. The results suggest that the brain ‘restructures memories’ during sleep, researcher Jan Born tells Nature, so we wake up with a fresh perspective. The study, he says, underlines the importance of getting a good night’s rest.” —The Week, Vol 4 Iss 143
Myofascial Trigger Points
Massage can help relieve pain
Those annoying knots in muscles and connective tissues are called myofascial trigger points. The 'myo' part of the word means muscle and 'fascial' refers to the elastic, connective tissue that runs throughout the body. Trigger points radiate (or refer) pain from muscle or fascia in a characteristic pattern. For example, trigger points in the shoulders often send pain and tension throughout the shoulders and up into the lower neck. Likewise, trigger points in your buttocks can refer pain down the leg just as in sciatica.
Two doctors, Dr. Janet Travell and Dr. David Simons, revolutionized our understanding of trigger points. They mapped out the entire body and standardized a pain referral pattern for each muscle. Trigger points usually follow these maps. Deep breathing, stretching, applications of heat or cold, and massage can help.
The levator scapula, a problematic muscle
Travell and Simons say that the shoulders are the area most affected by trigger points. The levator scapula muscle connects your shoulder blade to your neck and is responsible for elevating your shoulder blade. It is especially prone to trigger points, and can refer pain to the neck, around the shoulders and down into the mid-back.
Massage techniques to relieve pain
Massage therapists are trained to prevent and reduce these knots and the pain that accompanies them. One of the most effective treatments that therapeutic massage utilizes with trigger points is called 'ischemic compression.' After locating the trigger point, the therapist applies direct pressure, producing some pain, always working within your tolerance level. You may feel discomfort locally or you may feel it radiate and travel away from the area being pressed.
Your therapist may instruct you to breathe deeply, consciously relaxing the area being pressed until the discomfort subsides. Next, the pressure may be slowly increased until the pain returns. This process may be repeated, followed by other massage techniques and hydrotherapy such as moist heat or ice massage.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for relieve the stress? Call me, Liz @ Massage with Style. Train in to know just what to do for those knots, which come from Stress and everyday life!
Impact of Reflexology on the Workplace
The following are a collection of Studies in the use of Reflexolgy and the impact that has been made in the workplace.
“Our work is done through computers and people spending many hours in a chair doing their work, resulting in aching shoulders and back. Since we employed our reflexologist we have experienced a substantial decrease of people being ill and away from work. It has had a physical and psychological effect. There is a much better atmosphere in the department, because the employees feel there is something being done about their problems. Before staff used to stay at home, now we see them go to work anyway because they know they can get a treatment and feel better.”
The Odense Postal District employed a reflexologist for 3 years to deal with employee stress. Two hundred and thirty five employees participated resulting in a 25% fall in sick leave, saving £110,000 and 170 employees reported a good impact on their health.
143 people employed in the council of Aarhus had regular reflexology with the following results:
Telecom Taastrup hired a reflexologist 3 days a week for its 800 employees. 156 employees participated in the survey who received 1056 treatments in a year. 60% of problems were for back pain/muscle tension, headache/migraine, stomach/intestinal problems. The others had problems relating to movement. The survey results were as follows:
28 members of staff at Worcester Hospitals received 40 mins of reflexology each week for 6 weeks. Their response to the reflexology was measured in terms of: pain, mobility, lethargy, psychological stress. The key results were:
Study 1*-
A
reflexologist was hired by a Scandinavian airline's cargo department to
improve staff morale and reduce sick leave for its 60 employees,
resulting in monthly savings of US$3,300. This is what their employees
said: “Our work is done through computers and people spending many hours in a chair doing their work, resulting in aching shoulders and back. Since we employed our reflexologist we have experienced a substantial decrease of people being ill and away from work. It has had a physical and psychological effect. There is a much better atmosphere in the department, because the employees feel there is something being done about their problems. Before staff used to stay at home, now we see them go to work anyway because they know they can get a treatment and feel better.”
Study 2*-
The Odense Postal District employed a reflexologist for 3 years to deal with employee stress. Two hundred and thirty five employees participated resulting in a 25% fall in sick leave, saving £110,000 and 170 employees reported a good impact on their health.
Study 3*-
A reflexologist was employed for 6 months. 52 employees (allwomen) were treated for various ailments.
- Sick leave fell by 65.9%
- 97.5% had a positive effect on their primary problem
- 77.5% had a positive effect on their secondary problem
- They had a 27.5% reduction in medication
Study 4*-
143 people employed in the council of Aarhus had regular reflexology with the following results:
- 79% had complete or partial recovery for their primary problem
- 57% had a positive effect on their secondary problem
- 30% were more satisfied at work
- 92% would like to continue with treatments.
Study 5*-
Telecom Taastrup hired a reflexologist 3 days a week for its 800 employees. 156 employees participated in the survey who received 1056 treatments in a year. 60% of problems were for back pain/muscle tension, headache/migraine, stomach/intestinal problems. The others had problems relating to movement. The survey results were as follows:
- 40% had their sick days reduced
- 56% indicated that reflexology had helped
- 29% indicated that reflexology had partially helped
- 15% did not help
Study 6 -
28 members of staff at Worcester Hospitals received 40 mins of reflexology each week for 6 weeks. Their response to the reflexology was measured in terms of: pain, mobility, lethargy, psychological stress. The key results were:
- 74% had a significant reduction in pain
- 62.5% had a significant improvement in mobility
- 55% had a significant improvement in psychological stress
- 53% had a significant reduction in lethargy
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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Lavender | Relaxing Sleep Formula
Bergamot | Calming Stress Formula
Eucalyptus | Soothing Coughs & Colds Formula
Arnica | Soothing Aches & Pains Formula
Citrus | Enhanced Energy Formula
Lemongrass | Enhanced Mental Focus & Energy Formula
Rose Geranium | Soothing PMS & Menopause Formula
Tea Tree | Soothing Itch & Skin Care Formula
NATURAL PATCHES OF VERMONT™
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Custom oil blends suspended in a unique
body patch delivery system cultivate wellness
by addressing many common complaints.
Once applied, body heat-activated essential
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Monday, November 14, 2011
Less Stress is Best!
Stress has become an accepted part of life for most people. Here are a few tips to lessen the amount of stress in your life:
Reevaluate your goals. Having a clear picture of what you want to accomplish in life can help you to spot stressful areas that you may be able to eliminate from your routine.
Lighten your load. There’s a limit to what any one person can get done in a day. Make sure the responsibilities you assume aren’t more than you can handle. Sometimes you just need to say “no.”
Don’t let life get too serious. It’s much easier to succeed at any task when you can make what you’re doing fun. Any time you can turn an activity into a game (one that you can win), you’ll enjoy each day’s events more.
Limit your “news” intake. You can get too involved in the news. Many of the frightening reports may not directly affect you, so don’t worry needlessly.
Offer to help someone. When you can support another in some way, you share in their rewards and get a larger view of life.
Spend time with others you like. Being involved with those people that are important to you enhances your well-being.
Schedule a massage! Nothing reduces stress as pleasantly as a massage session. By getting regular massages, you can stay ahead of the stress game and reverse many of the negative effects stress brings to your body.
Schedule your next massage today!
Reevaluate your goals. Having a clear picture of what you want to accomplish in life can help you to spot stressful areas that you may be able to eliminate from your routine.
Lighten your load. There’s a limit to what any one person can get done in a day. Make sure the responsibilities you assume aren’t more than you can handle. Sometimes you just need to say “no.”
Don’t let life get too serious. It’s much easier to succeed at any task when you can make what you’re doing fun. Any time you can turn an activity into a game (one that you can win), you’ll enjoy each day’s events more.
Limit your “news” intake. You can get too involved in the news. Many of the frightening reports may not directly affect you, so don’t worry needlessly.
Offer to help someone. When you can support another in some way, you share in their rewards and get a larger view of life.
Spend time with others you like. Being involved with those people that are important to you enhances your well-being.
Schedule a massage! Nothing reduces stress as pleasantly as a massage session. By getting regular massages, you can stay ahead of the stress game and reverse many of the negative effects stress brings to your body.
Schedule your next massage today!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
The Roots of Reflexology
Following the Connections
By Christine Issel
Originally published in Massage & Bodywork magazine, June/July 2003.
Copyright 2003. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.
Many people confuse reflexology with massage, but they are two distinct modalities -- each with its own strengths. Both, like many therapies (chiropractic, osteopathy and other somatic practices), involve the use of the hands to apply specific techniques to the body, thereby enhancing the client's well-being.
From a historical perspective, reflexology is more akin to osteopathy in both theory and technique than massage. Osteopathy was developed by Andrew Taylor Still in 1874. He believed in a direct relationship between disorders in joint movement and symptomatology. In addition, Still theorized that the autonomic nerve reflexes were involved in metabolic changes in soft tissues. The goal of osteopathy is not to directly relieve organic diseases, but to improve the structural function and tone of muscles, relieve tension and restore relaxation to the body. As osteopathic physician Myron Beal explains: "Any constriction or congestions will interfere with the vital processes and normal functions of the body tissues ... The zone of the spine from which the nerves emerge which are concerned with any particular organ or area of the body must be specially considered in osteopathic treatment."1 Osteopathy is not normally used in the treatment of infectious diseases although it may be used in conjunction with other treatments because of its effect on the sympathetic nervous system, circulation and hormone secretion.
No doubt Eunice Ingham was introduced to these concepts, if not through her own interests and research, then during her work at the clinic of the Osteopathic Hospital in St. Petersburg, Fla., and her association with osteopath Joe Shelby Riley in the mid-'30s. She was also a guest lecturer in the 1950s at the American School of Osteopathy. Ingham refers to osteopathic and chiropractic concepts and research in Stories the Feet Have Told. Under a section titled "Osteopathic Concept" Ingham writes, "A spinal lesion2 means an abnormal pull on muscle tissue. If we can release the excessive tension by contacting a specific reflex in the feet, we are helping to bring about a correction of that spinal lesion."3 In this statement Ingham combines two concepts fundamental to osteopathy and reflexology -- lesions and reflexes.
Chapman's Reflexes
Discovered by Frank Chapman, D.O., Chapman's Reflexes are painful points located all over the body that, when palpated, he felt could lead to the healing of disease. In An Endocrine Interpretation of Chapman's Reflexes, 2nd edition, Fred Mitchell, D.O, writes, "Drs. Chapman and (Charles) Owens (D.O.) were of the opinion that these reflexes were clinically useful in three principal ways: 1) for diagnosis, 2) for influencing the motion of fluids, mostly lymph, and 3) for influencing visceral (organ) function through the nervous system."4
In general, Chapman's Reflexes are found in soft tissue at various points along both sides of the sternum, the proximal head of humerus, distal and proximal clavicle, occipital ridge, cervicals, ribs, scapula, thoracics, lumbar, sacrum, coccyx, pelvis, pubis, fibula and medial head of the tibia. When the condition involves an organ, the location where the autonomic nerve ganglion branches off the spinal column to the organ becomes one of the reflex points to be palpated.
According to Mitchell, "Chapman's Reflexes is just a term given to these receptor organs because of the osteopath who discovered their diagnostic and therapeutic value in the location and treatment of disease."5 Since Chapman's Reflexes were located all over the body the impression given was that a reflex is an object or point on the skin. Leon Chaitow notes in Soft Tissue Manipulation that reflexes go by many names: Janet Travell, M.D., and associates refer to them as trigger points, Myron Beal as viscerosomatic reflexes, Terence Bennet, D.C., as neurovascular points, M. Gutstein, M.D., as myodysneuric points, Irvin M. Korr, Ph.D., as facilitate segment and referred dysfunction, and in acupuncture they are tsubo points, yet all are discussing the same phenomena.6
At the same time, palpation was thought to create a reflex action of some type. Like Chapman, Ingham uses the word reflex to describe a sensitive area while also using it to describe the physiological process produced by a reflex action. Explaining the results she obtained, Ingham writes, "Try this simple method of producing a reflex action (by manipulation) through the nerve endings on the soles of the feet."7 Here she is indicating a reflex action. Then, like Chapman, she produced charts that illustrated where points could be palpated to reach various organs and called them reflexes, too.
Chapman himself stressed that results would come more quickly and be less painful by gentle, rather than strong, pressure to the reflex point. The actual time a practitioner worked on a particular reflex could last from 20 seconds to two minutes or more. Mitchell stressed that over-treatment fatigued the reflex arc and nullified the good effect produced. However, he also cautioned that inefficient or insufficient work produced poor results. While admonishing the student to remember the inter-relationship of organ systems, he recommended working the system in the sequence it is found. For example, "Work the distal colon before treating the proximal colon."8
The 2nd edition of Chapman's Reflexes contains a foreword that suggests when studying reflex work, the student: 1) learn each reflex by location rather than by sense of touch, 2) learn reflexes by groups (systems) one at a time, and 3) learn to include the endocrine gland along with the nerve and blood supply concerned in the disturbance.9
All three of these points were adopted for reflexology by Ingham. The layout design is also very similar in Ingham's and Chapman's books. Each chapter covers a pathology and points to work are indicated.
Endocrine Link
Two different systems coordinate the working of the body. The nervous system functions by using electrical impulses, while the endocrine system uses chemicals called hormones. Within the nervous system there are sensory neurons that carry nerve impulses from different parts of the body to the central nervous system. Some sensory neurons are directly triggered by stimuli while others are triggered indirectly by special cells or neurons called receptors.
Osteopathic theory concludes that if there is a lesion formed within the soft tissue of the spinal column then a stimulus by palpation will produce a reflex action that will in turn produce a physiological reaction to organs innervated from the autonomic nerve ganglia. To this Chapman linked receptors and the role they play with the endocrine system. Communication does take place within the receptors and this could be why Chapman was the first to link the endocrinology of the body to the concept of reflexes as an osteopathic principle. In her book Zone Therapy, Its Application to the Glands and Kindred Ailments, Ingham also utilizes this theory in her hypothesis of the mechanics of how reflexology works: "May we retain an open receptive mind for aid or suggestions in the scientific explanation of the relation of these nerve endings and their direct association with the tissues involved. Is it not possible that by way of the autonomics, the endoctrines (sic) (glands) are doubtless affected in such a way that a better synergism is brought about between the various important glands of this system?"10
Osteopathy's Connection to the Feet
An interesting point to consider in Chapman's work is that nowhere are the feet or hands involved as sites to be worked. However, we do know that sensory neurons are plentiful in the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Joe Shelby Riley may have reached this same conclusion and adapted Chapman's concept, which he knew about through his own osteopathic training, to the feet and hands while coupling reflexes with Fitzgerald's work with zones. Riley's charts are the oldest that map the various "reflex" points on the feet. Riley's work was further refined, expanded and popularized by Ingham who worked as his assistant for several months during two successive winters in Florida prior to the publication of her first book.
With Chapman's concepts in mind, the palpation to the receptors on the feet may support much of the same principles. First, sensitivity in the soft tissue of the foot, [e.g., pain upon palpatory pressure] may affect the body as the fascia forms lesions and adversely affects biomechanical movement. Removal of articular lesions coupled with the hormonal activation triggering an endocrine response, stimulation to the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and all nervous systems makes reflexology a very powerful and holistic therapy. Additionally, the proper alignment of the joints in reflexognosy produces relief of tension to the segmental dysfunction of the dermatomes, resulting in the relaxation of muscular tension and nerves throughout the body. The reduction of pain results as normalization of receptor activity moves toward normal muscle tone. The relaxation process will reverberate up the spinal column and through the autonomic nerve ganglia to the organs and other parts of the body due to the close ties between the central nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
Ingham simplifies this in Stories the Feet Have Told by writing, "If any degree of tenderness is found in those reflexes in that part of the foot relative to the spine, then by applying this form of compression massage to that area you will relax the muscle tension surrounding that vertebra."11 In fact, the actual processes the practitioner has affected includes structural alignment, which produces reduced tension on the fascia that may result in improved circulation and pain reduction, improving overall health.
Palpatory Terminology
Another link between reflexology and osteopathy is found in the terminology. Typically palpation involves both the use of light touch and deep touch to discover changes taking place in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Light touch can either be passive, where the fingers rest lightly on the skin, or active, whereby the fingers move from site to site. Beal writes, "In deep-touch, the fingers compress the skin surface, palpating through skin and subcutaneous tissues to the superficial muscle. Further compression leads to palpation of deeper muscles, fascia and bone. Deep palpation utilizes forces of compression and shear. Compression is a force applied perpendicularly to the skin surface. Shear is a force applied parallel to the skin surface. In some instances, deep palpation combines both compression and shear in the exploration of deep tissue texture."12
Note the use of the term compression. In Eunice Ingham's statement above, she described her work as "the reflex method of compression massage" before finally settling on the term reflexology. The term massage by Ingham is preceded with the adjective compression, indicating she was not referring to Swedish massage. Her later use of the term reflexology implicates she considered the work to involve a study of the reflexes and reflex action. From this it is clear the techniques and nomenclature employed by reflexologists are closely aligned with osteopathic principles and "reflexes," not those of massage, as some would claim. To reflexology, osteopathy contributes:
- The terms, techniques and theories of reflexes, reflex action, lesions and compression,
- The importance of the autonomic nerve ganglion innervating the organs and endocrine system,
- Tactile skills and soft tissue manipulation of "reflexes",
- A holistic approach to illness through the study of the systems of the body utilizing touch.
While at first glance the opposite may seem true, osteopathic theory and techniques are certainly more akin to reflexology than massage in theory and techniques. Reflexologists simply concentrate their work on the feet and hands rather than the spine and trunk of the body.
Christine Issel, M.A., with her extensive background in reflexology spanning more than 30 years, consults and lectures on all aspects of reflexology, nationally and internationally. She is co-author of Reflexology: Art, Science & History and Reflexognosy: A Shift in Paradigm, with Sandi Rogers. She is also the editor of Reflexology Today, the national news magazine of the American Reflexology Certification Board. In addition, she is an international lecturer, conference organizer, founder of reflexology associations and organizations, and serves as a director on several reflexology boards acting as a legislative advocate.
References
1. Beal, Myron, C. Osteopathic Basics, Journal of the American Osteopathic Association.1980 March, 79 (7): 458.
2. The "osteopathic lesion" was generally considered to be due to some form of strain resulting in a complete or partial fixation of a joint within its normal range of movement. Frank Chapman, M.D., in his work would later expand on the definition by adding that structural change is accompanied by changes in the chemical structure and therefore the working conditions of the surrounding tissues.
3. Ingham, Eunice. Stories the Feet Have Told. Ingham Publishing: St. Petersburg, Fla., 1951: 30.
4. The Interpreter. An Endocrine Interpretation of Chapman's Reflexes. 6th printing, American Academy of Osteopathy: Newark, OH, 1992: iii.
5. Ibid., 2.
6. Chaitow, Leon. Soft Tissue Manipulation. Healing Arts Press, 1988.
7. Ingham, Eunice. Stories the Feet Can Tell. Ingham Publishing: St. Petersburg, Fla.,1938: Introduction.
8. The Interpreter, iv.
9. Ibid., iv.
10. Ingham, Eunice. Zone Therapy, Its Application to the Glands and Kindred Ailments. Rochester, N.Y., 1945: 29.
11. Ingham. Stories the Feet Can Tell. 30-31.
12. Beal, 458.
By Christine Issel
Originally published in Massage & Bodywork magazine, June/July 2003.
Copyright 2003. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.
Many people confuse reflexology with massage, but they are two distinct modalities -- each with its own strengths. Both, like many therapies (chiropractic, osteopathy and other somatic practices), involve the use of the hands to apply specific techniques to the body, thereby enhancing the client's well-being.
From a historical perspective, reflexology is more akin to osteopathy in both theory and technique than massage. Osteopathy was developed by Andrew Taylor Still in 1874. He believed in a direct relationship between disorders in joint movement and symptomatology. In addition, Still theorized that the autonomic nerve reflexes were involved in metabolic changes in soft tissues. The goal of osteopathy is not to directly relieve organic diseases, but to improve the structural function and tone of muscles, relieve tension and restore relaxation to the body. As osteopathic physician Myron Beal explains: "Any constriction or congestions will interfere with the vital processes and normal functions of the body tissues ... The zone of the spine from which the nerves emerge which are concerned with any particular organ or area of the body must be specially considered in osteopathic treatment."1 Osteopathy is not normally used in the treatment of infectious diseases although it may be used in conjunction with other treatments because of its effect on the sympathetic nervous system, circulation and hormone secretion.
No doubt Eunice Ingham was introduced to these concepts, if not through her own interests and research, then during her work at the clinic of the Osteopathic Hospital in St. Petersburg, Fla., and her association with osteopath Joe Shelby Riley in the mid-'30s. She was also a guest lecturer in the 1950s at the American School of Osteopathy. Ingham refers to osteopathic and chiropractic concepts and research in Stories the Feet Have Told. Under a section titled "Osteopathic Concept" Ingham writes, "A spinal lesion2 means an abnormal pull on muscle tissue. If we can release the excessive tension by contacting a specific reflex in the feet, we are helping to bring about a correction of that spinal lesion."3 In this statement Ingham combines two concepts fundamental to osteopathy and reflexology -- lesions and reflexes.
Chapman's Reflexes
Discovered by Frank Chapman, D.O., Chapman's Reflexes are painful points located all over the body that, when palpated, he felt could lead to the healing of disease. In An Endocrine Interpretation of Chapman's Reflexes, 2nd edition, Fred Mitchell, D.O, writes, "Drs. Chapman and (Charles) Owens (D.O.) were of the opinion that these reflexes were clinically useful in three principal ways: 1) for diagnosis, 2) for influencing the motion of fluids, mostly lymph, and 3) for influencing visceral (organ) function through the nervous system."4
In general, Chapman's Reflexes are found in soft tissue at various points along both sides of the sternum, the proximal head of humerus, distal and proximal clavicle, occipital ridge, cervicals, ribs, scapula, thoracics, lumbar, sacrum, coccyx, pelvis, pubis, fibula and medial head of the tibia. When the condition involves an organ, the location where the autonomic nerve ganglion branches off the spinal column to the organ becomes one of the reflex points to be palpated.
According to Mitchell, "Chapman's Reflexes is just a term given to these receptor organs because of the osteopath who discovered their diagnostic and therapeutic value in the location and treatment of disease."5 Since Chapman's Reflexes were located all over the body the impression given was that a reflex is an object or point on the skin. Leon Chaitow notes in Soft Tissue Manipulation that reflexes go by many names: Janet Travell, M.D., and associates refer to them as trigger points, Myron Beal as viscerosomatic reflexes, Terence Bennet, D.C., as neurovascular points, M. Gutstein, M.D., as myodysneuric points, Irvin M. Korr, Ph.D., as facilitate segment and referred dysfunction, and in acupuncture they are tsubo points, yet all are discussing the same phenomena.6
At the same time, palpation was thought to create a reflex action of some type. Like Chapman, Ingham uses the word reflex to describe a sensitive area while also using it to describe the physiological process produced by a reflex action. Explaining the results she obtained, Ingham writes, "Try this simple method of producing a reflex action (by manipulation) through the nerve endings on the soles of the feet."7 Here she is indicating a reflex action. Then, like Chapman, she produced charts that illustrated where points could be palpated to reach various organs and called them reflexes, too.
Chapman himself stressed that results would come more quickly and be less painful by gentle, rather than strong, pressure to the reflex point. The actual time a practitioner worked on a particular reflex could last from 20 seconds to two minutes or more. Mitchell stressed that over-treatment fatigued the reflex arc and nullified the good effect produced. However, he also cautioned that inefficient or insufficient work produced poor results. While admonishing the student to remember the inter-relationship of organ systems, he recommended working the system in the sequence it is found. For example, "Work the distal colon before treating the proximal colon."8
The 2nd edition of Chapman's Reflexes contains a foreword that suggests when studying reflex work, the student: 1) learn each reflex by location rather than by sense of touch, 2) learn reflexes by groups (systems) one at a time, and 3) learn to include the endocrine gland along with the nerve and blood supply concerned in the disturbance.9
All three of these points were adopted for reflexology by Ingham. The layout design is also very similar in Ingham's and Chapman's books. Each chapter covers a pathology and points to work are indicated.
Endocrine Link
Two different systems coordinate the working of the body. The nervous system functions by using electrical impulses, while the endocrine system uses chemicals called hormones. Within the nervous system there are sensory neurons that carry nerve impulses from different parts of the body to the central nervous system. Some sensory neurons are directly triggered by stimuli while others are triggered indirectly by special cells or neurons called receptors.
Osteopathic theory concludes that if there is a lesion formed within the soft tissue of the spinal column then a stimulus by palpation will produce a reflex action that will in turn produce a physiological reaction to organs innervated from the autonomic nerve ganglia. To this Chapman linked receptors and the role they play with the endocrine system. Communication does take place within the receptors and this could be why Chapman was the first to link the endocrinology of the body to the concept of reflexes as an osteopathic principle. In her book Zone Therapy, Its Application to the Glands and Kindred Ailments, Ingham also utilizes this theory in her hypothesis of the mechanics of how reflexology works: "May we retain an open receptive mind for aid or suggestions in the scientific explanation of the relation of these nerve endings and their direct association with the tissues involved. Is it not possible that by way of the autonomics, the endoctrines (sic) (glands) are doubtless affected in such a way that a better synergism is brought about between the various important glands of this system?"10
Osteopathy's Connection to the Feet
An interesting point to consider in Chapman's work is that nowhere are the feet or hands involved as sites to be worked. However, we do know that sensory neurons are plentiful in the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Joe Shelby Riley may have reached this same conclusion and adapted Chapman's concept, which he knew about through his own osteopathic training, to the feet and hands while coupling reflexes with Fitzgerald's work with zones. Riley's charts are the oldest that map the various "reflex" points on the feet. Riley's work was further refined, expanded and popularized by Ingham who worked as his assistant for several months during two successive winters in Florida prior to the publication of her first book.
With Chapman's concepts in mind, the palpation to the receptors on the feet may support much of the same principles. First, sensitivity in the soft tissue of the foot, [e.g., pain upon palpatory pressure] may affect the body as the fascia forms lesions and adversely affects biomechanical movement. Removal of articular lesions coupled with the hormonal activation triggering an endocrine response, stimulation to the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and all nervous systems makes reflexology a very powerful and holistic therapy. Additionally, the proper alignment of the joints in reflexognosy produces relief of tension to the segmental dysfunction of the dermatomes, resulting in the relaxation of muscular tension and nerves throughout the body. The reduction of pain results as normalization of receptor activity moves toward normal muscle tone. The relaxation process will reverberate up the spinal column and through the autonomic nerve ganglia to the organs and other parts of the body due to the close ties between the central nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
Ingham simplifies this in Stories the Feet Have Told by writing, "If any degree of tenderness is found in those reflexes in that part of the foot relative to the spine, then by applying this form of compression massage to that area you will relax the muscle tension surrounding that vertebra."11 In fact, the actual processes the practitioner has affected includes structural alignment, which produces reduced tension on the fascia that may result in improved circulation and pain reduction, improving overall health.
Palpatory Terminology
Another link between reflexology and osteopathy is found in the terminology. Typically palpation involves both the use of light touch and deep touch to discover changes taking place in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Light touch can either be passive, where the fingers rest lightly on the skin, or active, whereby the fingers move from site to site. Beal writes, "In deep-touch, the fingers compress the skin surface, palpating through skin and subcutaneous tissues to the superficial muscle. Further compression leads to palpation of deeper muscles, fascia and bone. Deep palpation utilizes forces of compression and shear. Compression is a force applied perpendicularly to the skin surface. Shear is a force applied parallel to the skin surface. In some instances, deep palpation combines both compression and shear in the exploration of deep tissue texture."12
Note the use of the term compression. In Eunice Ingham's statement above, she described her work as "the reflex method of compression massage" before finally settling on the term reflexology. The term massage by Ingham is preceded with the adjective compression, indicating she was not referring to Swedish massage. Her later use of the term reflexology implicates she considered the work to involve a study of the reflexes and reflex action. From this it is clear the techniques and nomenclature employed by reflexologists are closely aligned with osteopathic principles and "reflexes," not those of massage, as some would claim. To reflexology, osteopathy contributes:
- The terms, techniques and theories of reflexes, reflex action, lesions and compression,
- The importance of the autonomic nerve ganglion innervating the organs and endocrine system,
- Tactile skills and soft tissue manipulation of "reflexes",
- A holistic approach to illness through the study of the systems of the body utilizing touch.
While at first glance the opposite may seem true, osteopathic theory and techniques are certainly more akin to reflexology than massage in theory and techniques. Reflexologists simply concentrate their work on the feet and hands rather than the spine and trunk of the body.
Christine Issel, M.A., with her extensive background in reflexology spanning more than 30 years, consults and lectures on all aspects of reflexology, nationally and internationally. She is co-author of Reflexology: Art, Science & History and Reflexognosy: A Shift in Paradigm, with Sandi Rogers. She is also the editor of Reflexology Today, the national news magazine of the American Reflexology Certification Board. In addition, she is an international lecturer, conference organizer, founder of reflexology associations and organizations, and serves as a director on several reflexology boards acting as a legislative advocate.
References
1. Beal, Myron, C. Osteopathic Basics, Journal of the American Osteopathic Association.1980 March, 79 (7): 458.
2. The "osteopathic lesion" was generally considered to be due to some form of strain resulting in a complete or partial fixation of a joint within its normal range of movement. Frank Chapman, M.D., in his work would later expand on the definition by adding that structural change is accompanied by changes in the chemical structure and therefore the working conditions of the surrounding tissues.
3. Ingham, Eunice. Stories the Feet Have Told. Ingham Publishing: St. Petersburg, Fla., 1951: 30.
4. The Interpreter. An Endocrine Interpretation of Chapman's Reflexes. 6th printing, American Academy of Osteopathy: Newark, OH, 1992: iii.
5. Ibid., 2.
6. Chaitow, Leon. Soft Tissue Manipulation. Healing Arts Press, 1988.
7. Ingham, Eunice. Stories the Feet Can Tell. Ingham Publishing: St. Petersburg, Fla.,1938: Introduction.
8. The Interpreter, iv.
9. Ibid., iv.
10. Ingham, Eunice. Zone Therapy, Its Application to the Glands and Kindred Ailments. Rochester, N.Y., 1945: 29.
11. Ingham. Stories the Feet Can Tell. 30-31.
12. Beal, 458.
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Ultimate Health Drink
One of the most common messages that I, as a, massage therapists impart is: “Be sure to drink plenty of water!” Drinking adequate amounts of pure water is one of the simplest ways to help your body to be healthier! And what better time to do so than when the weather is hot! If you haven’t developed the water habit yet, read on to learn why you really should.
The following passages are excerpted from an online article written by S. Jhoanna Robledo:
“Health-care providers say water nourishes the entire body. ‘Water is a life-sustaining beverage,’ says Leslie Bonci, a registered dietician and author of The American Dietetic Association Guide to Better Digestion. ‘Every organ in the body needs water.’
“Keeping the GI tract in fine working order
For water to get where it’s needed, it must be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. When you drink water, it travels quickly down the esophagus, through the stomach and into the intestines, where it’s partially diffused into the bloodstream, hydrating the body’s cells. The kidneys and the bladder make use of some of the water, and what’s left goes into the large intestine to move fecal matter.
“ ‘Water helps flush the system,’ says Dr. Donald F. Kirby, a gastroenterologist and chief of the nutrition section at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, Va. When there aren’t enough fluids in the colon, patients suffer from constipation, a common gastrointestinal ailment.
“And one solution to constipation—eating a diet rich in fiber, which can be found in fruits, vegetables and whole grain—can’t work without adequate intake of fluids. ‘Fiber draws water from all sources in the body to make stools softer and easier to pass through,’ says Bonci.
“Water may also play a role in preventing colorectal cancer. The Mayo Clinic cites a study that showed that women who drank more than five glasses of water a day had a risk of colon cancer that was 45 percent less than that of those who drank two or fewer glasses a day.
“ ‘If you’re drinking enough fluids, you’re moving things more efficiently and quickly so toxins won’t be sitting in your gut for too long,’ says Bonci.”
Bottom-line, Keep that Body moving!
The following passages are excerpted from an online article written by S. Jhoanna Robledo:
“Health-care providers say water nourishes the entire body. ‘Water is a life-sustaining beverage,’ says Leslie Bonci, a registered dietician and author of The American Dietetic Association Guide to Better Digestion. ‘Every organ in the body needs water.’
“Keeping the GI tract in fine working order
For water to get where it’s needed, it must be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. When you drink water, it travels quickly down the esophagus, through the stomach and into the intestines, where it’s partially diffused into the bloodstream, hydrating the body’s cells. The kidneys and the bladder make use of some of the water, and what’s left goes into the large intestine to move fecal matter.
“ ‘Water helps flush the system,’ says Dr. Donald F. Kirby, a gastroenterologist and chief of the nutrition section at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, Va. When there aren’t enough fluids in the colon, patients suffer from constipation, a common gastrointestinal ailment.
“And one solution to constipation—eating a diet rich in fiber, which can be found in fruits, vegetables and whole grain—can’t work without adequate intake of fluids. ‘Fiber draws water from all sources in the body to make stools softer and easier to pass through,’ says Bonci.
“Water may also play a role in preventing colorectal cancer. The Mayo Clinic cites a study that showed that women who drank more than five glasses of water a day had a risk of colon cancer that was 45 percent less than that of those who drank two or fewer glasses a day.
“ ‘If you’re drinking enough fluids, you’re moving things more efficiently and quickly so toxins won’t be sitting in your gut for too long,’ says Bonci.”
Bottom-line, Keep that Body moving!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Keep It Moving
There’s more proof that exercise can help people with arthritis stay fit enough to perform everyday tasks like cooking, dressing and bathing.
In a two-year study of more than 5,700 adults with arthritis age 65 and older, researchers at Northwestern University in Chicago found that the sedentary adults were twice as likely to have to limit their movements because of arthritis than the active participants.
Exercising more—by gardening, swimming or walking—could prevent a good deal of physical decline in people with arthritis, lead author Dorothy Dunlop, M.D., of the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern wrote in the April issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism. Other research has found exercise can also help ease the joint pain caused by arthritis. —AARP Bulletin June, 2005
In a two-year study of more than 5,700 adults with arthritis age 65 and older, researchers at Northwestern University in Chicago found that the sedentary adults were twice as likely to have to limit their movements because of arthritis than the active participants.
Exercising more—by gardening, swimming or walking—could prevent a good deal of physical decline in people with arthritis, lead author Dorothy Dunlop, M.D., of the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern wrote in the April issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism. Other research has found exercise can also help ease the joint pain caused by arthritis. —AARP Bulletin June, 2005
Monday, July 18, 2011
Ducky Derby coming this Weekend!
The annual Ducky Derby is here again! Gather the kids and the pets and wander down to the Washougal River to watch your Duck race. Yes, that's right! If you purchased a Ducky Derby Ticket, your Ducky with your ticket number will be racing on Sunday afternoon, June 24,2011.
And, if you don't have that ticket... There is still time. I've currently got tickets at my office and you will also be able to purchase ticket at Camas Days.
And, if you don't have that ticket... There is still time. I've currently got tickets at my office and you will also be able to purchase ticket at Camas Days.
Friday, July 8, 2011
The Other Side of Massage
Sometimes it good to repost old articles and this is one of those times!
In our Western civilization, we focus much of our health attention on the physical side of life, but the human experience is a package deal. Often referred to in alternative health circles as body, mind and spirit, our lives are a composite, with each part of the equation affecting the whole.
In this issue, let’s examine the other side of the picture that’s so often overlooked—the emotional benefits of massage therapy.
As stated earlier, when a problem arises in our lives, we usually focus on the physical aspects. There’s no doubt that if you are ill or in pain, your mental and emotional outlook suffers as well. It’s hard to focus on your goals and enjoy life when you don’t feel your best. In order to handle these situations (hopefully before they grow beyond minor difficulties), you should strive to keep all sides of your life—your body, mind and spirit—functioning at their best.
Regular massage is an ideal vehicle to keep you on the road to good health. It can affect positively so many aspects of your life in such a short time. Consider how it can affect the emotional/mental side of life both directly and indirectly. Since a physical complaint can affect you mentally as well, you can expect to enjoy some mental relief when massage relaxes tense muscles or calms you.
On the other side of the equation, how often do your worries and concerns actually create the physical tension that is experienced as a nervous stomach or felt in your back or shoulders?
Underlying these physical/mental connections that we experience as tension, headaches, sensations of gloom, etc., is an interesting phenomenon that affects us all. To function every day with the many sensations that are in the environment, you tend to tune out some stimuli and focus on other stimuli. For example, when you absorb yourself in a book, you can tune out conversations and other distractions around you. If you were unable to tune out some of the stimuli, you would be overwhelmed continually and find it nearly impossible to accomplish anything.
On the flip side of this coin are the stimuli that you choose to regard as so important that they can monopolize your attention. These are things that are often considered as threatening to your survival. For instance, rats can learn to ignore a flashing red light in their cages. But when a shock is administered shortly after the light is turned on and is repeated a few times, the rats will pay close attention to the light as it apparently threatens their survival. As time goes on, they will begin to experience the same anxiety when seeing the light without experiencing the shock.
Much of the chronic mental stress we experience can be created and maintained like the rats’ light in the cage. A bad experience catches your attention, and you focus on it expecting the danger to repeat itself.
These two mechanisms are both useful to our survival—up to a point. You can learn to tune out a stimulus that you should be paying attention to, or you can focus on a situation (like the rats’) that creates mental stress
unnecessarily.
When you are receiving regular massage, you are incorporating a new set of stimuli that can alter these inappropriate tendencies and create new responses that are more fitting. Massage can reawaken those areas that have been out of commission and can quiet those overly sensitized areas by providing pleasant sensations that can abate the fear of the expected pain.
These mechanisms are operating continually, affecting greatly how we function. From the above information, you can see how this can contribute to your mental/emotional state, as well as your physical well-being.
So, the next time you reach the end of your massage feeling mentally cleansed and refreshed, you’ll know the reason why! It’s another great reason to make sure your regular massage sessions remain a priority in your life. Take good care of yourself; see you soon!
Reference: Job’s Body by Deane Juhan
In our Western civilization, we focus much of our health attention on the physical side of life, but the human experience is a package deal. Often referred to in alternative health circles as body, mind and spirit, our lives are a composite, with each part of the equation affecting the whole.
In this issue, let’s examine the other side of the picture that’s so often overlooked—the emotional benefits of massage therapy.
As stated earlier, when a problem arises in our lives, we usually focus on the physical aspects. There’s no doubt that if you are ill or in pain, your mental and emotional outlook suffers as well. It’s hard to focus on your goals and enjoy life when you don’t feel your best. In order to handle these situations (hopefully before they grow beyond minor difficulties), you should strive to keep all sides of your life—your body, mind and spirit—functioning at their best.
Regular massage is an ideal vehicle to keep you on the road to good health. It can affect positively so many aspects of your life in such a short time. Consider how it can affect the emotional/mental side of life both directly and indirectly. Since a physical complaint can affect you mentally as well, you can expect to enjoy some mental relief when massage relaxes tense muscles or calms you.
On the other side of the equation, how often do your worries and concerns actually create the physical tension that is experienced as a nervous stomach or felt in your back or shoulders?
Underlying these physical/mental connections that we experience as tension, headaches, sensations of gloom, etc., is an interesting phenomenon that affects us all. To function every day with the many sensations that are in the environment, you tend to tune out some stimuli and focus on other stimuli. For example, when you absorb yourself in a book, you can tune out conversations and other distractions around you. If you were unable to tune out some of the stimuli, you would be overwhelmed continually and find it nearly impossible to accomplish anything.
On the flip side of this coin are the stimuli that you choose to regard as so important that they can monopolize your attention. These are things that are often considered as threatening to your survival. For instance, rats can learn to ignore a flashing red light in their cages. But when a shock is administered shortly after the light is turned on and is repeated a few times, the rats will pay close attention to the light as it apparently threatens their survival. As time goes on, they will begin to experience the same anxiety when seeing the light without experiencing the shock.
Much of the chronic mental stress we experience can be created and maintained like the rats’ light in the cage. A bad experience catches your attention, and you focus on it expecting the danger to repeat itself.
These two mechanisms are both useful to our survival—up to a point. You can learn to tune out a stimulus that you should be paying attention to, or you can focus on a situation (like the rats’) that creates mental stress
unnecessarily.
When you are receiving regular massage, you are incorporating a new set of stimuli that can alter these inappropriate tendencies and create new responses that are more fitting. Massage can reawaken those areas that have been out of commission and can quiet those overly sensitized areas by providing pleasant sensations that can abate the fear of the expected pain.
These mechanisms are operating continually, affecting greatly how we function. From the above information, you can see how this can contribute to your mental/emotional state, as well as your physical well-being.
So, the next time you reach the end of your massage feeling mentally cleansed and refreshed, you’ll know the reason why! It’s another great reason to make sure your regular massage sessions remain a priority in your life. Take good care of yourself; see you soon!
Reference: Job’s Body by Deane Juhan
Enhance the Quality of Your Life
In today’s world, we are inundated with choices. Although many of us set out on a quest for the “good life,” we often find ourselves committed to activities that do little to reward us with the real prize we are seeking. If asked to list the most important elements in life, would you agree that feeling your best and having meaningful relationships would be among your highest priorities?
One of the major challenges we all face is reducing stress, a major cause of health problems and mental anguish. Stress is such an insidious problem. It can sneak into your life and quietly settle in, actually throwing your body’s entire system out of balance. Most of disease is precipitated by stress, so reducing stress is vital to your future health. (See the back page for hints to lessen stress.)
Of the many actions you can take to improve the quality of your life, making sure you get regular massage sessions is one of the most important. To give you an idea of how much massage can help you, look at just one basic benefit bodywork offers you. Your overall health depends on the proper movement of fluids throughout your body. The circulation of blood, lymph, even the fluids that fill all the spaces in between the cells—these are the activities that assist in maintaining a healthy body. This movement of fluids is the lifeline to the tissues throughout your body, providing life-giving nourishment to every cell. Massage contributes to these flows and subsequently can help your body to function more optimally.
When you take on a project, you want to have proper tools for the job. In the “job” of life, having a healthy mind and body and a positive outlook can put the odds in your favor with every task you face.
Each year, new studies document that massage is an effective means of bettering your health in many ways, as well as bringing your body into a better state of balance and harmony.
Whatever your goals in life, you’ll be better equipped to succeed when you are physically, emotionally and mentally at your best. When you are operating at your peak, you can handle anything life throws your way much more effectively. Massage can help you stay at the top of your game, so put regular sessions at the top of your list!
One of the major challenges we all face is reducing stress, a major cause of health problems and mental anguish. Stress is such an insidious problem. It can sneak into your life and quietly settle in, actually throwing your body’s entire system out of balance. Most of disease is precipitated by stress, so reducing stress is vital to your future health. (See the back page for hints to lessen stress.)
Of the many actions you can take to improve the quality of your life, making sure you get regular massage sessions is one of the most important. To give you an idea of how much massage can help you, look at just one basic benefit bodywork offers you. Your overall health depends on the proper movement of fluids throughout your body. The circulation of blood, lymph, even the fluids that fill all the spaces in between the cells—these are the activities that assist in maintaining a healthy body. This movement of fluids is the lifeline to the tissues throughout your body, providing life-giving nourishment to every cell. Massage contributes to these flows and subsequently can help your body to function more optimally.
When you take on a project, you want to have proper tools for the job. In the “job” of life, having a healthy mind and body and a positive outlook can put the odds in your favor with every task you face.
Each year, new studies document that massage is an effective means of bettering your health in many ways, as well as bringing your body into a better state of balance and harmony.
Whatever your goals in life, you’ll be better equipped to succeed when you are physically, emotionally and mentally at your best. When you are operating at your peak, you can handle anything life throws your way much more effectively. Massage can help you stay at the top of your game, so put regular sessions at the top of your list!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Massage in the News . . .
(compiled from the American Massage Therapy Association’s website)
A study conducted by Beth Israel-Deaconess Center for Alternative Medicine Research and Education and the Center for Health Studies in Seattle concluded that therapeutic massage was an effective treatment for providing long-lasting benefits for patients suffering from chronic low back pain.
54 percent of primary care physicians and family practitioners would encourage their patients to pursue massage therapy as a treatment.
A consumer survey shows that consumers seek massage for health and medical reasons (60 percent) more than for sheer indulgence (6 percent).
Twenty-one percent of Americans continue to say that the primary reason they don’t get a regular massage is that they are too busy.
A study conducted by Beth Israel-Deaconess Center for Alternative Medicine Research and Education and the Center for Health Studies in Seattle concluded that therapeutic massage was an effective treatment for providing long-lasting benefits for patients suffering from chronic low back pain.
54 percent of primary care physicians and family practitioners would encourage their patients to pursue massage therapy as a treatment.
A consumer survey shows that consumers seek massage for health and medical reasons (60 percent) more than for sheer indulgence (6 percent).
Twenty-one percent of Americans continue to say that the primary reason they don’t get a regular massage is that they are too busy.
Reflexology Research in Cancer study : Possible Game Changer
In an effort to keep my clients, up on the current growth in research concerning Reflexology!
Research programs around the world, in Reflexology, Alternative Health, Yoga, Massage, are helping to connect both Alternative and Traditional Healthcare.
Preliminary Results from Michigan State University Study on Reflexology and Chemotherapy
Reflexology improves by 10% the physical function of women undergoing chemotherapy for stage 3 and 4 breast cancer according to preliminary results from the much anticipated 5-year Michigan State University (MSU) study. The results reflected less difficulty in breathing for study participants who received reflexology with consequent improved abilities in activities such as walking, carrying groceries and climbing stairs.
Such improvement in quality of life for the cancer patients was reported by lead reflexologist Barbara Bower of Branch Reflexology noting the findings by Dr. Wyatt, principle investigator and Dr. Alla Sikorskii, co-investigator and statistician of MSU. Barbara developed the 9-step reflexology protocol utilized in the research.
385 women participated in the study with: 141 assigned to a reflexology group (1 session each week for 4 weeks); 143 assigned to receive "manipulation of the feet that was designed to be similar to reflexology, but delivered by lay people" and 96 assigned to a control group. "Women in the reflexology group had less trouble breathing compared to women in the control group, and also compared to women who received lay foot manipulation."
More will be reported here as the official study results are released.
A $3.5 million National Institute of Health grant made possible the study. Thanks to positive results, a grant in a similar amount will fund a further study of reflexology and cancer care patients expected to begin later this year. Studied will be the impact of reflexology administered by primary care givers trained in the 9-step protocol developed by Barbara Brower. Barbara has launched an education program for teaching others the protocol. (www.branchreflexology.com )
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Massage Therapy and Breathing
Learning to breathe more naturally can benefit your health and well-being. Massage can help you breathe easier and more efficiently.
Breathing properly involves more of your body than you may realize. Tension in any area of your body can make it very difficult to breathe relaxedly. Try to take a slow, deep breath while tightening the muscles in your feet or your hips. Now try it again with all your muscles relaxed. You should notice quite a difference in your ability to breathe easily.
Shallow breathing can lead to muscle dysfunction in several areas of your body, such as the neck and upper chest.
Your regular massage sessions can help to relax and normalize muscles throughout your body that can facilitate improved breathing. And in turn, your adoption of better breathing techniques can help to prevent a build-up of tension that leads to tight muscles, etc. When you maintain a regular schedule for massage, you will probably notice you feel much better on a day-to-day basis and experience fewer recurring physical complaints.
You can strengthen your results by including regular exercise and slow stretching in your regimen. If you’d like more information, please ask at your next appointment.
***** ***** ***** *****
Try this breathing technique from Breathe In, Breathe Out ...
Abdominal Breath: Natural Breath
1. Lie on your back or stand or sit comfortably and place your hands on your stomach (abdomen).
2. Inhale slowly and deeply, letting your abdomen expand like a balloon.
3. Let the abdomen fall as you exhale slowly, releasing old, stale air.
4. Inhale easily. Feel your tummy expand again.
5. Press the air out as you contract, as you pull in your abdomen while exhaling.
~~~~~
For every new person that any of my clients refer, that makes an appointment, I will give you and your friend a discount of $5.00 off your appointments. What it looks like - New Client $5.00 off appointment ... You $5.00 off appointment!
Breathing properly involves more of your body than you may realize. Tension in any area of your body can make it very difficult to breathe relaxedly. Try to take a slow, deep breath while tightening the muscles in your feet or your hips. Now try it again with all your muscles relaxed. You should notice quite a difference in your ability to breathe easily.
Shallow breathing can lead to muscle dysfunction in several areas of your body, such as the neck and upper chest.
Your regular massage sessions can help to relax and normalize muscles throughout your body that can facilitate improved breathing. And in turn, your adoption of better breathing techniques can help to prevent a build-up of tension that leads to tight muscles, etc. When you maintain a regular schedule for massage, you will probably notice you feel much better on a day-to-day basis and experience fewer recurring physical complaints.
You can strengthen your results by including regular exercise and slow stretching in your regimen. If you’d like more information, please ask at your next appointment.
***** ***** ***** *****
Try this breathing technique from Breathe In, Breathe Out ...
Abdominal Breath: Natural Breath
1. Lie on your back or stand or sit comfortably and place your hands on your stomach (abdomen).
2. Inhale slowly and deeply, letting your abdomen expand like a balloon.
3. Let the abdomen fall as you exhale slowly, releasing old, stale air.
4. Inhale easily. Feel your tummy expand again.
5. Press the air out as you contract, as you pull in your abdomen while exhaling.
~~~~~
For every new person that any of my clients refer, that makes an appointment, I will give you and your friend a discount of $5.00 off your appointments. What it looks like - New Client $5.00 off appointment ... You $5.00 off appointment!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Neck and Shoulders
Shrugging the Shoulders
When you shrug your shoulders, you are exercising muscles that tend to get pulled forward and hardened by tension. This tension buildup commonly occurs when you sit with your weight resting on your tailbone instead of forward over your hips. Shrugging breaks up the tension and provides a mild form of exercise that increases blood flow and restores mobility. The more you support the mobility of your shoulders, the less likely you’ll be to harbor tension there.
1. Slowly lift your right shoulder straight up to your ear.
2. Slowly return your right shoulder to a neutral position.
3. Repeat the lift/release movement with the left shoulder.
4. Repeat the lift/release movement with both shoulders together.
Hints:
• Keep your shoulder muscles soft as you do this. Don’t force the movement.
• Don’t tilt your head toward your shoulder. Bring your shoulder up to your ear.
• Keep the opposite shoulder in a neutral or slightly dropped position and avoid hunching it as you lift the shrugging shoulder.
Squeezing the Neck
It’s easy for your neck to become tense, especially when you are seated at a desk. When the neck muscles tense up, your neck often loses its mobility. A neck massage helps to restore muscle flexibility and release built-up tension.
1. Place your right hand on the right side of your neck and position your fingertips just to the right of your neck bones.
2. Keeping your fingertips together, massage the neck muscle using a gentle, circular motion. Without straining, move your hand up and down the neck muscle. Keep your neck in a neutral position as you massage.
3. Repeat the procedure using your left hand on the left side of your neck.
4. Repeat the procedure again using both hands and massage both sides of the neck at the same time.
Hints:
• Don’t press your neck so hard that you feel compelled to counteract the pressure in order to keep your neck from being pushed out of a neutral, upright position.
• Watch out for the tendency to hunch your shoulders, especially as you increase the pressure.
• Don’t let your head fall backward into your hand or forward into an extreme bend. Keep it level and in a neutral position.
When you shrug your shoulders, you are exercising muscles that tend to get pulled forward and hardened by tension. This tension buildup commonly occurs when you sit with your weight resting on your tailbone instead of forward over your hips. Shrugging breaks up the tension and provides a mild form of exercise that increases blood flow and restores mobility. The more you support the mobility of your shoulders, the less likely you’ll be to harbor tension there.
1. Slowly lift your right shoulder straight up to your ear.
2. Slowly return your right shoulder to a neutral position.
3. Repeat the lift/release movement with the left shoulder.
4. Repeat the lift/release movement with both shoulders together.
Hints:
• Keep your shoulder muscles soft as you do this. Don’t force the movement.
• Don’t tilt your head toward your shoulder. Bring your shoulder up to your ear.
• Keep the opposite shoulder in a neutral or slightly dropped position and avoid hunching it as you lift the shrugging shoulder.
Squeezing the Neck
It’s easy for your neck to become tense, especially when you are seated at a desk. When the neck muscles tense up, your neck often loses its mobility. A neck massage helps to restore muscle flexibility and release built-up tension.
1. Place your right hand on the right side of your neck and position your fingertips just to the right of your neck bones.
2. Keeping your fingertips together, massage the neck muscle using a gentle, circular motion. Without straining, move your hand up and down the neck muscle. Keep your neck in a neutral position as you massage.
3. Repeat the procedure using your left hand on the left side of your neck.
4. Repeat the procedure again using both hands and massage both sides of the neck at the same time.
Hints:
• Don’t press your neck so hard that you feel compelled to counteract the pressure in order to keep your neck from being pushed out of a neutral, upright position.
• Watch out for the tendency to hunch your shoulders, especially as you increase the pressure.
• Don’t let your head fall backward into your hand or forward into an extreme bend. Keep it level and in a neutral position.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Foot Pain, It may be Plantar Fasciitis, are you at risk?
As we all know well, anyone will tell you, when there is foot pain, we hurt all over. Our feet are the foundation or our structure, or body. If there is a problem with that foundation, everything else – knees, hips, back – will be thrown off.
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the connective tissue referred to as plantar fascia. This fascia runs along the sole from the bottom on the heel to the toes. Many will say that it feels as if the arch of the foot is tearing.
Risk factors, causes, incidence and Symptoms
When the tissue that is referred to as plantar fascia has been over stretched or overused, it can become inflamed. Once the fascia is inflamed, it can be painful and make walking more difficult.
Some of the risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
• Foot arch problems (both high arches and flat feet)
• Obesity
• Repetitive loading on the feet when long-distance running, especially when going downhill or uneven surfaces
• Sudden weight gain
• Tight Achilles tendon (tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel)
• Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles
Plantar fasciitis is commonly seen in middle-aged men and women, but it can be found in all age groups. The most common complaint is diagnosed with the classic symptoms of pain in the bottom of the foot in the heel area. Often the pain caused by plantar fasciitis is more severe when you first get out of bed in the morning. This pain will often subside quickly, only to return after periods of prolonged standing or walking. By the end of the day the pain may be replaced by a dull ache which improves with rest.
Signs and tests
Typical physical exam findings may include:
• Mild swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness on the bottom of the heel
Treatment
Conservative and Alternative treatment is almost always successful, when given enough time. Treatment can last from several weeks to 2 years before symptoms get better. On the average most patients are better in about 9 months. According to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, in 90 percent of people, heel pain improves significantly after two months of treatment.
Initial treatment usually consists of:
• Regular treatment with a Reflexologist or Massage Therapist(a massage therapistis well trained in foot care)
• Heel stretching exercises
• Education in self care
• Hydrotherapy twice daily (10-15 minutes, more often the first couple of days your therapist will instruct you further in Hydrotherapy)
• Rest as much as possible for the first week.
• Wear properly fitted shoes.
Expectations
Nearly all patients/clients will improve within one year of beginning therapy, with no long term problems.
Sources:
• Reflexology, Health at your fingertips
by Barbara and Kevin Kunz, Dorling Kindersley, London, 2004
• Riddle, DL, et al. “Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis” J. Bone Joint Surg. Am., May 2003;85: 872 - 877
• Gill LH. “Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management” J. Am. Acad. Ortho> Surg., Mar 1997; 5: 109 – 117.
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the connective tissue referred to as plantar fascia. This fascia runs along the sole from the bottom on the heel to the toes. Many will say that it feels as if the arch of the foot is tearing.
Risk factors, causes, incidence and Symptoms
When the tissue that is referred to as plantar fascia has been over stretched or overused, it can become inflamed. Once the fascia is inflamed, it can be painful and make walking more difficult.
Some of the risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
• Foot arch problems (both high arches and flat feet)
• Obesity
• Repetitive loading on the feet when long-distance running, especially when going downhill or uneven surfaces
• Sudden weight gain
• Tight Achilles tendon (tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel)
• Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles
Plantar fasciitis is commonly seen in middle-aged men and women, but it can be found in all age groups. The most common complaint is diagnosed with the classic symptoms of pain in the bottom of the foot in the heel area. Often the pain caused by plantar fasciitis is more severe when you first get out of bed in the morning. This pain will often subside quickly, only to return after periods of prolonged standing or walking. By the end of the day the pain may be replaced by a dull ache which improves with rest.
Signs and tests
Typical physical exam findings may include:
• Mild swelling
• Redness
• Tenderness on the bottom of the heel
Treatment
Conservative and Alternative treatment is almost always successful, when given enough time. Treatment can last from several weeks to 2 years before symptoms get better. On the average most patients are better in about 9 months. According to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, in 90 percent of people, heel pain improves significantly after two months of treatment.
Initial treatment usually consists of:
• Regular treatment with a Reflexologist or Massage Therapist(a massage therapistis well trained in foot care)
• Heel stretching exercises
• Education in self care
• Hydrotherapy twice daily (10-15 minutes, more often the first couple of days your therapist will instruct you further in Hydrotherapy)
• Rest as much as possible for the first week.
• Wear properly fitted shoes.
Expectations
Nearly all patients/clients will improve within one year of beginning therapy, with no long term problems.
Sources:
• Reflexology, Health at your fingertips
by Barbara and Kevin Kunz, Dorling Kindersley, London, 2004
• Riddle, DL, et al. “Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis” J. Bone Joint Surg. Am., May 2003;85: 872 - 877
• Gill LH. “Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management” J. Am. Acad. Ortho> Surg., Mar 1997; 5: 109 – 117.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Take care of your Feet...
.....Your Feet will take care of you!
Promoting Your Good Health
Reflexology promotes the body’s marvelous ability to adjust and balance during times of stress. Simply taking time out to relax can help you let go of tension and enjoy a feeling of restored balance.
Beyond relaxation, reflexology has been shown to improve circulation. Increasing circulations boosts the supply of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and other tissues and speeds the eliminations of waste products such as lactic acid and stress hormones. This, in turn, reduces muscle tension and soreness, decreases healing time for injuries, and reduces swelling from injures and illness. Immune function, skin tone, and the ability to concentrate also improve when circulation is increased.
Why work on the feet?
We have over 7200 nerve endings on the soles of our feet, making them quite sensitive-and responsive to the sensory input of reflexology.
If you are stressed, overworked, or injured, a Reflexologist can send a calm and intentional message to the nervous system through his or her skilled touch to the feet. Because your nervous system is designed to respond to new input, your reflexologist’s relaxing touch refocuses your attention from the stress you’ve been experiencing. As you begin to unwind and enjoy new and pleasant sensations, tension decreases and pain subsides.
The feet are accessible and easy to work. You only need to remove your shoes and socks and your Reflexologist can address the needs of your entire body. If your feet cannot be worked for any reason, you can receive the same benefits from stimulating the reflexology points in your hands.
An abundance of evidence complied over centuries from such diverse areas as Egypt, India, Japan, China and Europe suggests that your body is reflected in your feet. That is when pressure is applied to the feet, predictable positive changes occur elsewhere in the body.
Reflexology in health care
Because it promotes overall health, reflexology is used as complementary care for people with a variety of conditions. For example, reflexology can help alleviate headaches, reduce arthritic and back pain, decrease the symptoms of addiction withdrawal, ease the swings of premenstrual syndrome, and reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
In Switzerland, nurses working with terminally ill cancer patients routinely use reflexology to decrease pain and make patients more comfortable. In Great Britain, reflexology is part of the National Health Service. Of the 26% of Danes who have tried reflexology as a complementary therapy, 73% of these experience benefits, including a gain in energy, improved mood, and improved sleep.
A holistic approach
When considering reflexology as complementary care, it is important to understand that reflexology approaches the body as a whole with interrelated systems. For example, applying pressure to the sinus points by themselves will not necessarily relieve a headache. Your Reflexologist stimulates all you reflex points, enabling your body to mobilize healing energies wherever in the body they are needed.
Promoting Your Good Health
Reflexology promotes the body’s marvelous ability to adjust and balance during times of stress. Simply taking time out to relax can help you let go of tension and enjoy a feeling of restored balance.
Beyond relaxation, reflexology has been shown to improve circulation. Increasing circulations boosts the supply of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and other tissues and speeds the eliminations of waste products such as lactic acid and stress hormones. This, in turn, reduces muscle tension and soreness, decreases healing time for injuries, and reduces swelling from injures and illness. Immune function, skin tone, and the ability to concentrate also improve when circulation is increased.
Why work on the feet?
We have over 7200 nerve endings on the soles of our feet, making them quite sensitive-and responsive to the sensory input of reflexology.
If you are stressed, overworked, or injured, a Reflexologist can send a calm and intentional message to the nervous system through his or her skilled touch to the feet. Because your nervous system is designed to respond to new input, your reflexologist’s relaxing touch refocuses your attention from the stress you’ve been experiencing. As you begin to unwind and enjoy new and pleasant sensations, tension decreases and pain subsides.
The feet are accessible and easy to work. You only need to remove your shoes and socks and your Reflexologist can address the needs of your entire body. If your feet cannot be worked for any reason, you can receive the same benefits from stimulating the reflexology points in your hands.
An abundance of evidence complied over centuries from such diverse areas as Egypt, India, Japan, China and Europe suggests that your body is reflected in your feet. That is when pressure is applied to the feet, predictable positive changes occur elsewhere in the body.
Reflexology in health care
Because it promotes overall health, reflexology is used as complementary care for people with a variety of conditions. For example, reflexology can help alleviate headaches, reduce arthritic and back pain, decrease the symptoms of addiction withdrawal, ease the swings of premenstrual syndrome, and reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
In Switzerland, nurses working with terminally ill cancer patients routinely use reflexology to decrease pain and make patients more comfortable. In Great Britain, reflexology is part of the National Health Service. Of the 26% of Danes who have tried reflexology as a complementary therapy, 73% of these experience benefits, including a gain in energy, improved mood, and improved sleep.
A holistic approach
When considering reflexology as complementary care, it is important to understand that reflexology approaches the body as a whole with interrelated systems. For example, applying pressure to the sinus points by themselves will not necessarily relieve a headache. Your Reflexologist stimulates all you reflex points, enabling your body to mobilize healing energies wherever in the body they are needed.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
There are still openings this week for Massage, Reflexology, Aromatherapy, and Reiki sessions! Check us out now at schedulicity.com and see what is still open. Mention our Facebook page and receive $15 off your session. We accept cash, checks, debit and credit. Be sure to ask about a savings pain for those who want to earn free sessions.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Keep It Moving
There’s more proof that exercise can help people with arthritis stay fit enough to perform everyday tasks like cooking, dressing and bathing.
In a two-year study of more than 5,700 adults with arthritis age 65 and older, researchers at Northwestern University in Chicago found that the sedentary adults were twice as likely to have to limit their movements because of arthritis than the active participants.
Exercising more—by gardening, swimming or walking—could prevent a good deal of physical decline in people with arthritis, lead author Dorothy Dunlop, M.D., of the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern wrote in the April issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism. Other research has found exercise can also help ease the joint pain caused by arthritis. —AARP Bulletin June, 2005
In a two-year study of more than 5,700 adults with arthritis age 65 and older, researchers at Northwestern University in Chicago found that the sedentary adults were twice as likely to have to limit their movements because of arthritis than the active participants.
Exercising more—by gardening, swimming or walking—could prevent a good deal of physical decline in people with arthritis, lead author Dorothy Dunlop, M.D., of the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern wrote in the April issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism. Other research has found exercise can also help ease the joint pain caused by arthritis. —AARP Bulletin June, 2005
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Fascinating Fascia ...
Do you know what fascia is?
Most people have never heard of it, yet it’s literally everywhere throughout your body. And the role it plays is an important one.
What is fascia? The World Book Dictionary defines fascia as “a usually thin band of fibrous connective tissue covering, supporting, or binding together a muscle, part, or organ; tissue of this kind.” The word comes from the Latin fascia, meaning a band or girdle.
This connective tissue forms a continuous net throughout the body, from head to toe and from skin to the deepest levels. “If all the other tissues were extracted, the connective framework alone would preserve the three-dimensional human form in all its details,” writes author and bodyworker Deane Juhan in his book Job’s Body.
All of the body’s components that we are more familiar with—the blood vessels, nerves, muscles, etc.—make their way through this maze of fascia. And found in all the tiny spaces throughout the connective tissue is a fluid called ground substance, a viscous liquid resembling raw egg whites.
Ground substance is the medium in which all those cellular body functions—nutrients and hormones being delivered to cells, wastes being carried away, etc.—take place.
So, what does all this have to do with massage and your overall health? Because fascia is a continuous web spreading throughout your body, it can play a major role in how your body functions. Since it’s a gel, ground substance can change in consistency. When a body is active (through work, exercise, stretching, etc.), it generates heat that creates a more ideal condition for the ground substance—one in which it becomes thinner or more liquid. This allows for better metabolic exchange to take place throughout your body, helping your body to better maintain proper health.
If a body is less active, the connective tissues are not as warmed or energized, allowing the ground substance to thicken; the tissues become sluggish and lose their ability to stretch, soften and flex.
One of the health benefits of massage is the positive effect it has on this process in the body. “By means of pressure and stretching, and the friction they generate, the temperature and therefore the energy level of the tissue has merely been raised slightly. This added energy in turn promotes a more fluid ground substance ... in which nutrients and cellular wastes can conduct their exchanges more efficiently.” 1
The substance that gives connective tissue its strength is the protein collagen (derived from the Greek word meaning glue). The collagen molecule is the longest molecule that has ever been isolated. These collagen fibers derive their strength from their ability to form strong chemical bonds with each other. Over the years, these fibers tend to pack more tightly and strengthen their bonds, especially in places with more compression and strain. “These areas of chronic stress in the connective tissue thicken and rigidify, bunch up, lose their range of motion, and impose their limitations on the movement of the body as a whole. ... This unwanted bonding is one of the major factors in the stiffness associated with old age, repeated strain, or poorly healed injuries.” 1
Because fascia is continuous throughout your body, when one area is affected (becomes tight, for example), its effects can manifest in other areas as well. Imagine pulling on a corner of your shirt and the numerous distortions this causes across the length of the fabric. Fascia can react in a similar fashion. Areas of restricted fascia can lead to various complaints, such as postural problems and restricted movement.
So, in addition to massage benefiting your tight or sore muscles while soothing and relaxing you, it also is playing another vital health role. “The pressure, motion, and friction created by deep manipulation raises thermal ... levels far beneath the surface. In addition, the squeezing, stretching, and contorting of the connective tissues creates a cleansing, flushing effect, similar to that of rinsing out a sponge... Large amounts of toxins and wastes ... can be thus moved out of the intracellular fluids and into the bloodstream, from which they can then be eliminated.” 1
This information only scratches the surface on fascia and the roles it plays in your body, but it should give you a better understanding of how your regular massage sessions can benefit you. If you have questions, just ask!
1. Deane Juhan, Job’s Body, 1987
Most people have never heard of it, yet it’s literally everywhere throughout your body. And the role it plays is an important one.
What is fascia? The World Book Dictionary defines fascia as “a usually thin band of fibrous connective tissue covering, supporting, or binding together a muscle, part, or organ; tissue of this kind.” The word comes from the Latin fascia, meaning a band or girdle.
This connective tissue forms a continuous net throughout the body, from head to toe and from skin to the deepest levels. “If all the other tissues were extracted, the connective framework alone would preserve the three-dimensional human form in all its details,” writes author and bodyworker Deane Juhan in his book Job’s Body.
All of the body’s components that we are more familiar with—the blood vessels, nerves, muscles, etc.—make their way through this maze of fascia. And found in all the tiny spaces throughout the connective tissue is a fluid called ground substance, a viscous liquid resembling raw egg whites.
Ground substance is the medium in which all those cellular body functions—nutrients and hormones being delivered to cells, wastes being carried away, etc.—take place.
So, what does all this have to do with massage and your overall health? Because fascia is a continuous web spreading throughout your body, it can play a major role in how your body functions. Since it’s a gel, ground substance can change in consistency. When a body is active (through work, exercise, stretching, etc.), it generates heat that creates a more ideal condition for the ground substance—one in which it becomes thinner or more liquid. This allows for better metabolic exchange to take place throughout your body, helping your body to better maintain proper health.
If a body is less active, the connective tissues are not as warmed or energized, allowing the ground substance to thicken; the tissues become sluggish and lose their ability to stretch, soften and flex.
One of the health benefits of massage is the positive effect it has on this process in the body. “By means of pressure and stretching, and the friction they generate, the temperature and therefore the energy level of the tissue has merely been raised slightly. This added energy in turn promotes a more fluid ground substance ... in which nutrients and cellular wastes can conduct their exchanges more efficiently.” 1
The substance that gives connective tissue its strength is the protein collagen (derived from the Greek word meaning glue). The collagen molecule is the longest molecule that has ever been isolated. These collagen fibers derive their strength from their ability to form strong chemical bonds with each other. Over the years, these fibers tend to pack more tightly and strengthen their bonds, especially in places with more compression and strain. “These areas of chronic stress in the connective tissue thicken and rigidify, bunch up, lose their range of motion, and impose their limitations on the movement of the body as a whole. ... This unwanted bonding is one of the major factors in the stiffness associated with old age, repeated strain, or poorly healed injuries.” 1
Because fascia is continuous throughout your body, when one area is affected (becomes tight, for example), its effects can manifest in other areas as well. Imagine pulling on a corner of your shirt and the numerous distortions this causes across the length of the fabric. Fascia can react in a similar fashion. Areas of restricted fascia can lead to various complaints, such as postural problems and restricted movement.
So, in addition to massage benefiting your tight or sore muscles while soothing and relaxing you, it also is playing another vital health role. “The pressure, motion, and friction created by deep manipulation raises thermal ... levels far beneath the surface. In addition, the squeezing, stretching, and contorting of the connective tissues creates a cleansing, flushing effect, similar to that of rinsing out a sponge... Large amounts of toxins and wastes ... can be thus moved out of the intracellular fluids and into the bloodstream, from which they can then be eliminated.” 1
This information only scratches the surface on fascia and the roles it plays in your body, but it should give you a better understanding of how your regular massage sessions can benefit you. If you have questions, just ask!
1. Deane Juhan, Job’s Body, 1987
Thursday, March 17, 2011
GRAB the Savings!
Check out the following special for the next 3 months!
MARCH - $70 for Spring Fling! 90 minute session for under the price of an hour! Reflexology, Massage, Raindrop at Massage with Style ($100 Value)
APRIL - $50 for Tax Relief Special! 1 session any service at Massage with Style ($90 Value)
MAY - $65 for 90 minute session using 2 services of any of the following: Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Massage at Massage with Style ($110 Value)
JUNE - $15 off purchase of any session (hour or longer) with this coupon.
Also checkout the current 'RIGHT TIME, RIGHT SPOT' specials. Found on both FACEBOOK and TWITTER ONLY!
MARCH - $70 for Spring Fling! 90 minute session for under the price of an hour! Reflexology, Massage, Raindrop at Massage with Style ($100 Value)
APRIL - $50 for Tax Relief Special! 1 session any service at Massage with Style ($90 Value)
MAY - $65 for 90 minute session using 2 services of any of the following: Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Massage at Massage with Style ($110 Value)
JUNE - $15 off purchase of any session (hour or longer) with this coupon.
Also checkout the current 'RIGHT TIME, RIGHT SPOT' specials. Found on both FACEBOOK and TWITTER ONLY!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The Brag Wall!
OK ALL!!! I've got my brag wall updated at the office. Besides my WHS wrestling team, I'm collecting photos of others that I've touched, who have gone out and achieved their own GREATNESS! And for those who aren't on the wall yet... Be proud of what you have done and get on my wall! It's the place to be!!!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Softer Side of Cancer Care
Patients with cancer are finding a host of wellness opportunities at Cleveland Clinic.
Wellness is a term not commonly associated with cancer. But Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute specialists make wellness a priority for their patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Encouraging inner peace and tranquility
Patients who take part in the Reflections program have the opportunity to be pampered, to regain a sense of control over cancer, and to enjoy some special moments for themselves. A licensed medical aesthetician, certified in Reiki and reflexology, oversees the program. Treatments are given in a softly lighted room filled with soothing sounds and tranquil scents.
Private sessions are designed to reduce anxiety and promote healing. Patients can enjoy a professional reflexology treatment and a gentle foot soak, or refresh and rejuvenate with a luxurious facial. Guided imagery enables participants to focus their minds on healing and reducing pain.
Enhancing beauty
Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy can get skin care and makeup advice, help with the selection of wigs and tips for wearing scarves creatively when the national Look Good… Feel Better program visits the Taussig Cancer Institute every other month. All participants leave with a complimentary gift bag of skin care and cosmetic products.
Expressing emotion
Art Therapy Programs gives patients and their caregivers the opportunity to express themselves through a variety of media including drawing, painting, collage and sculpture.
“Many of our patients schedule their treatments to coincide with the once-a-week art therapy sessions,” says instructor Rosalia Rozsahegvi of the Art Therapy Studio, the oldest expressive art therapy program in the country. “Art therapy encourages spontaneity and open exploration, giving patients an alternative mode of communication, personal exploration and self expression.”
Reducing anxiety
It’s no surprise that people with cancer have increased rates of depression and anxiety, which can lead to increased pain. With appropriate treatment, these patients can have an improved quality of life and better manage their treatment. In fact, some studies suggest that cancer care outcomes are better if depression and anxiety are treated. Patients being treated at the Taussig Cancer Institute can take advantage of counseling, and psychiatric evaluation and treatment through its Psycho-Oncology Program.
Relating to others
Support groups provide patients, families and friends an opportunity to have their concerns, fears and hopes reaffirmed by others who are experiencing similar life challenges. Support groups are led by Taussig Cancer Institute social workers, nurses and psychologists who are specialists in providing reliable and helpful information.
Printed from the 'Cleveland Clinic' Newsletter... Published January 2010
Read my interview on Whohub
Ask my opinion about something:
Wellness is a term not commonly associated with cancer. But Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute specialists make wellness a priority for their patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Encouraging inner peace and tranquility
Patients who take part in the Reflections program have the opportunity to be pampered, to regain a sense of control over cancer, and to enjoy some special moments for themselves. A licensed medical aesthetician, certified in Reiki and reflexology, oversees the program. Treatments are given in a softly lighted room filled with soothing sounds and tranquil scents.
Private sessions are designed to reduce anxiety and promote healing. Patients can enjoy a professional reflexology treatment and a gentle foot soak, or refresh and rejuvenate with a luxurious facial. Guided imagery enables participants to focus their minds on healing and reducing pain.
Enhancing beauty
Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy can get skin care and makeup advice, help with the selection of wigs and tips for wearing scarves creatively when the national Look Good… Feel Better program visits the Taussig Cancer Institute every other month. All participants leave with a complimentary gift bag of skin care and cosmetic products.
Expressing emotion
Art Therapy Programs gives patients and their caregivers the opportunity to express themselves through a variety of media including drawing, painting, collage and sculpture.
“Many of our patients schedule their treatments to coincide with the once-a-week art therapy sessions,” says instructor Rosalia Rozsahegvi of the Art Therapy Studio, the oldest expressive art therapy program in the country. “Art therapy encourages spontaneity and open exploration, giving patients an alternative mode of communication, personal exploration and self expression.”
Reducing anxiety
It’s no surprise that people with cancer have increased rates of depression and anxiety, which can lead to increased pain. With appropriate treatment, these patients can have an improved quality of life and better manage their treatment. In fact, some studies suggest that cancer care outcomes are better if depression and anxiety are treated. Patients being treated at the Taussig Cancer Institute can take advantage of counseling, and psychiatric evaluation and treatment through its Psycho-Oncology Program.
Relating to others
Support groups provide patients, families and friends an opportunity to have their concerns, fears and hopes reaffirmed by others who are experiencing similar life challenges. Support groups are led by Taussig Cancer Institute social workers, nurses and psychologists who are specialists in providing reliable and helpful information.
Printed from the 'Cleveland Clinic' Newsletter... Published January 2010
Read my interview on Whohub
Ask my opinion about something:
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Why Hugs Feel Good
Everybody likes to be cuddled; now scientists know why. Humans are hard-wired with a separate network of nerves that trigger emotional, hormonal, and behavioral responses to being touched. This network of slow-conducting nerves, called the C-tactile (CT) network, is separate from the fast-conducting nerves that signal the brain about heat, cold, pressure, and pain. Swedish scientists learned about the CT network’s function through a patient who lost the use of her primary network of nerves. When scientists stroked her arm, she felt no touch or vibration, but she reported feeling a “pleasant” pressure. Impulses traveled along this network at just 1 meter per second—compared to 60 meters per second for signals along a normal person’s primary network. “It seems the CT network conveys emotions, or a sense of self,” Dr. Hakan Olausson tells New Scientist. “It must be used for the unconscious aspects of touch, because it is so slow.” —The Week
Try this breathing technique from Breathe In, Breathe Out ...
Abdominal Breath: Natural Breath
1. Lie on your back or stand or sit comfortably and place your hands on your stomach (abdomen).
2. Inhale slowly and deeply, letting your abdomen expand like a balloon.
3. Let the abdomen fall as you exhale slowly, releasing old, stale air.
4. Inhale easily. Feel your tummy expand again.
5. Press the air out as you contract, as you pull in your abdomen while exhaling.
1. Lie on your back or stand or sit comfortably and place your hands on your stomach (abdomen).
2. Inhale slowly and deeply, letting your abdomen expand like a balloon.
3. Let the abdomen fall as you exhale slowly, releasing old, stale air.
4. Inhale easily. Feel your tummy expand again.
5. Press the air out as you contract, as you pull in your abdomen while exhaling.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Breathe Easy ...
Do you often think about breathing? Most people don’t, assuming as an “automatic” activity their breathing will take care of itself. It may be true that your body will make sure to take its next breath, but how can your awareness of your breathing benefit you? Does how you breathe affect other aspects of your health?
Many of your health concerns can be connected to how you breathe. After all, it is the mechanism that provides every cell in your body with life-giving oxygen. When your ability to breathe properly is compromised, you can expect some physical problems to develop.
In spite of the fact that breathing is an automatic function of the body, many people don’t breathe as nature intended. Often the cause is stress or tension. Such influences in our lives can become habit, leading the “automatic” process of breathing to be done improperly.
One of the most common habits is shallow breathing—breathing that focuses in the upper lungs and uses the muscles in the neck and upper chest area. In their book Breathe In, Breathe Out, authors Drs. Loehr and Migdow state, “Research has shown that slowing down and deepening our breath shifts us from the stress response to the relaxation response; this slows the heart, normalizes blood pressure, increases blood flow to the digestive system, deepens sleep, increases energy, focus, concentration, and memory—optimal breathing not only helps prevent or cure disease, it raises performance levels in school and sports.” That’s a pretty good list of benefits for just making sure that you’re breathing properly!
Why does abdominal (deep) breathing provide you with all these health advantages? Due to gravity, the lower portion of your lungs has a higher rate of blood flow. So your lungs and heart don’t have to work as hard and your circulatory system profits from this efficient means of oxygenating the blood. Deep, slow breathing is shown to release endorphins (the body’s natural pain suppressors) that bring about a feeling of relaxation and general well-being—a benefit you also get from massage.
As you incorporate better breathing into your life-style, try to do what you can to get as much fresh air as possible. In today’s society, with so many forms of air pollution, this can be a challenge. Your body will benefit from your efforts!
For information on how massage can help your breathing, read the article on the back page.
Many of your health concerns can be connected to how you breathe. After all, it is the mechanism that provides every cell in your body with life-giving oxygen. When your ability to breathe properly is compromised, you can expect some physical problems to develop.
In spite of the fact that breathing is an automatic function of the body, many people don’t breathe as nature intended. Often the cause is stress or tension. Such influences in our lives can become habit, leading the “automatic” process of breathing to be done improperly.
One of the most common habits is shallow breathing—breathing that focuses in the upper lungs and uses the muscles in the neck and upper chest area. In their book Breathe In, Breathe Out, authors Drs. Loehr and Migdow state, “Research has shown that slowing down and deepening our breath shifts us from the stress response to the relaxation response; this slows the heart, normalizes blood pressure, increases blood flow to the digestive system, deepens sleep, increases energy, focus, concentration, and memory—optimal breathing not only helps prevent or cure disease, it raises performance levels in school and sports.” That’s a pretty good list of benefits for just making sure that you’re breathing properly!
Why does abdominal (deep) breathing provide you with all these health advantages? Due to gravity, the lower portion of your lungs has a higher rate of blood flow. So your lungs and heart don’t have to work as hard and your circulatory system profits from this efficient means of oxygenating the blood. Deep, slow breathing is shown to release endorphins (the body’s natural pain suppressors) that bring about a feeling of relaxation and general well-being—a benefit you also get from massage.
As you incorporate better breathing into your life-style, try to do what you can to get as much fresh air as possible. In today’s society, with so many forms of air pollution, this can be a challenge. Your body will benefit from your efforts!
For information on how massage can help your breathing, read the article on the back page.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Score Big Points
$95 for Sweetheart of a deal! 2 sessions any of the service, Reflexology, Massage, Aromatherapy, Reiki at Massage with Style ($180 Value)
Good on Gift Certificates or payment at time of service. Month of February ONLY USE!
Special ends 2/28/2011
- Get Extra Hugs
- Lots More Kisses
- And Much More Love
$95 for Sweetheart of a deal! 2 sessions any of the service, Reflexology, Massage, Aromatherapy, Reiki at Massage with Style ($180 Value)
Good on Gift Certificates or payment at time of service. Month of February ONLY USE!
Special ends 2/28/2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Water Works
“Besides decreasing headaches, heartburn, constipation, fatigue and kidney stones, getting your fair share of water each day may help prevent serious illnesses including heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and asthma. One study at the University of Loma Linda, California, showed that people who drink five or more glasses of water every day cut their risk of suffering a fatal heart attack in half. Researchers believe because water, unlike other beverages, is absorbed immediately into the blood stream, it thins the blood and reduces clot risk. This also helps moderate blood pressure because it’s easier for the heart to pump thinner rather than thicker blood. Furthermore, researchers at Harvard reported men who drank six cups of water daily reduced bladder cancer risk by 50 percent. Other studies indicate that high water intake also curbs the risk of breast and colon cancers. And even asthma sufferers have reason to gulp it down. A University of Buffalo study revealed dehydration reduces lung function and triggers bronchial spasms, especially while exercising.”
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Gift Certificate Sale Success!
Thank you all who came in during the months of November and December to purchase Gift Certificates. The sales were tremendous. As a Thank you, starting 1/5/2011 and ending 2/28/2011, I will be offering the following 'Gift Certificate' Special! Buy a Gift Certificate, good for an Hour session and your gift certificate will be good for a 90 session. This is a savings of $35.00.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Liz
Massage with Style
www.massagewithstyle.com
360 844-5973
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Liz
Massage with Style
www.massagewithstyle.com
360 844-5973
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